Dupondius - Commodus PROV DEOR TR P V IMP IIII COS II P P S C, Providentia
| Emisor | Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Año | 180 |
| Tipo | Standard circulation coin |
| Valor | 1 Dupondius = 1/8 Denarius |
| Moneda | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composición | Bronze |
| Peso | 11.8 g |
| Diámetro | 24 mm |
| Grosor | |
| Forma | Round (irregular) |
| Técnica | Hammered |
| Orientación | |
| Grabador(es) | |
| En circulación hasta | |
| Referencia(s) | RIC III#303, OCRE#ric.3.com.303 |
| Descripción del anverso | Head of Commodus, radiate, right. |
|---|---|
| Escritura del anverso | Latin |
| Leyenda del anverso |
M COMMODVS ANTONINVS AVG (Translation: Marcus Commodus Antoninus Augustus. Marcus Commodus Antoninus, emperor (Augustus).) |
| Descripción del reverso | Providentia, draped, standing left, holding wand in right hand over globe on ground left and vertical sceptre in left hand. |
| Escritura del reverso | Latin |
| Leyenda del reverso |
PROV DEOR TR P V IMP IIII COS II P P S C (Translation: Providentia Deorum. Tribunicia Potestate Quinta, Imperator Quartum, Consul Secundum, Pater Patriae. Senatus Consultum. Foresight of the gods. Holder of tribunician power for the fifth time, supreme commander (Imperator) for the fourth time, consul for the second time, father of the nation. Decree of the senate.) |
| Canto | |
| Casa de moneda | |
| Tirada |
ND (180) - - |
| ID de Numisquare | 1681953750 |
| Información adicional |
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Historical Context: This Dupondius, struck in 180 AD, marks the commencement of Commodus' sole reign following his father Marcus Aurelius' death. As the first emperor born in the purple since Trajan, Commodus faced immense pressure. The reverse inscription PROV DEOR (Providentia Deorum) and Providentia depiction were strategically chosen to project divine approval and foresight for his new rule. The tribunician power (TR P V) and consular designation (COS II) precisely date this issue, emphasizing the continuity and divine legitimacy of his nascent emperorship.
Artistry: While the engraver remains anonymous, the coin adheres to the refined Antonine stylistic tradition, blending idealized classicism with individualistic portraiture. The obverse presents a laureate bust of the young Commodus, often resembling his father, aligning his image with established imperial virtue. The reverse features Providentia, personification of divine foresight, elegantly draped and holding her customary attributes—a wand pointing to a globe, symbolizing future imperial guidance, and a cornucopia for abundance.
Technical/Grading: This bronze Dupondius, weighing 11.8 grams and measuring 24 mm, is typical of Roman aes coinage. Key high-points for wear on the obverse include Commodus' hair over the brow and nose. On the reverse, Providentia's face, drapery folds, and details of the globe and cornucopia are most susceptible to abrasion. A well-struck example features clear, full legends and strong impressions, though minor flan imperfections or off-centering are common for this denomination.